THE REAL SANTA CLAUSE

SAINT NICHOLAS-A SAINT FOR ALL SEASONS




The historical facts
And the legends of Saint Nicholas
Are-in fact-intertwined


What we know for sure
Is that
He was Bishop of Myra
And may or may not
Have been instrumental
In the council of Nicea in 325


He became widely known
In the East-and that was increased
By an account of a fictitious biographer


And his legend
Began to spread to the West
In the 10^th century


Many have claimed him
As their patron Saint
Including children-sailors-unmarried girls-
Merchants-pawnbrokers-and perfumiers


It is believed
He saved three girls from prostitution
By throwing 3 bags of money
Through their windows
To provide dowries
So they could get married


It is believed
That this is the basis
Of three gold bars
As the pawnbrokers sign


It is believed
He raised three boys
After they were murdered by a butcher
And that he saved three men
Unjustly condemned to death
As well as
Three sailors lost at sea
Off the coast of Turkey


Many churches
Are named after him
And he is believed to be
The most painted Saint
Other than the Blessed Mother


The most popular result
Of his cult
Is the belief that Saint Nicholas
Is responsible for the origins of Santa Claus


This is based on
Nicholas’ love of children
And his giving them gifts


Nicholas remains
A very popular name
As well as its many variations including:
Colin-Nicola-Nicolette-and many others


So this December 6h
On his feast day
Let us all remember
That giving is NOT just for Christmas


But ALL YEAR round
And Nicholas is not just a Christmas Saint
BUT A SAINT FOR ALL SEASONS


Robert P. Wallman
12-6-6




ps While Saint Nicholas-may have the BEGINNING of Santa Claus-
We ALL KNOW that God's LOVE and Christ's love is the GIFT
That KEEPS on GIVING and is the gift that NEVER ENDS